C.E.R.T.
Community Emergency Response Team

Introduction & Background

1.) What is C.E.R.T. and why is it so important to the community?

The C.E.R.T. Program of Wilton Manors / Station 16, is an official function of the Federal and Broward County Emergency Management Agencies, Fort Lauderdale Fire Department and the Wilton Manors Police Department. The program is Federally funded through Grants dollars that become available based on need and the size of the community. C.E.R.T. is a program that empowers volunteers in our community to work cooperatively with these agencies to help assess damage, deploy needed resources, provide temporary rescue operations, and be able to recover from a disaster as quickly as possible. C.E.R.T. members may also be mobilized during special city events throughout the year where large crowds or traffic congestion are anticipated.

2.) When was C.E.R.T. founded?

The C.E.R.T. Program was first developed and implemented by the Los Angeles Fire Department in 1985. The California earthquakes of 1987 underscored the area-wide threat of a major disaster and the need for citizens to be able to help themselves, their families and neighbors. FEMA, Emergency Management Institute and National Fire Academy recognized the importance of this program and it was soon expanded throughout the United States.

3.) What training is involved and what are the requirements?

Training is comprised of (20) hours of instruction in the areas of:
1.) Disaster Preparedness
2.) Basic Fire Suppression
3.) Disaster Medical Operations / Part I
4.) Disaster Medical Operations / Part II
5.) Light Search & Rescue Operations
6.) Disaster Psychology & Team Organization
7.) Terrorism & C.E.R.T.
8.) Course Review & Disaster Simulation

Member requirements:
1.) Resident of Wilton Manors
2.) At least 16 years of age
3.) Must complete a detailed application
4.) Pass a background check
5.) Complete the required training & periodic refreshers

4.) How can I identify a C.E.R.T. Member?

C.E.R.T. members will be wearing their city issued identification card around their neck and a clearly marked C.E.R.T. t-shirt. You will only see them in the community during special city events, during a Hurricane or disaster. If you have any questions contact the police department at (954) 390-2150.

5.) How can I become a member of the Wilton Manors C.E.R.T. Team?

Simply “click here” print and complete the CERT Application and drop it off in person at the police dept. If you have any further questions contact Sergeant Chuck Howard at (954) 390-2160 or email: choward@wmpd.org

Click here to download the Cert Brochure

The next C.E.R.T class provides training on Tuesday and Thursday evenings for four weeks by City of Fort Lauderdale Fire-Rescue personnel

ALL AT NO CHARGE.

August 5 to 28, 2008 (both Tuesday and Thursday nights) from 7pm to 10pm Location: TBA

For more information contact: Carladean Ferguson

CarladeanF@fortlauderdale.gov

Phone: 954.828.6700